Surprising Health Benefits of Sprouts

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to boost your nutrient intake, sprout salads are an excellent choice. Sprouts are loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a powerhouse of nutrition that can provide a range of health benefits.

Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Director and Principal Consultant of Ayush Ayurveda, Singapore, says that in Ayurveda, sprouts are considered to be a highly nutritious food that is easy to digest and can help balance the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says, “Sprouts have a heating or Pitta-increasing effect on the body, which can help improve digestion and metabolism. Sprouts are also believed to be a good source of prana, or life force energy, which can help nourish the body and promote overall health and well-being.” Additionally, Ayurveda recommends sprouts as a food that is beneficial for all doshas, as they contain a balanced combination of all six tastes – sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent, he adds.

Benefits of nutritional sprouts salad 

Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says, “Sprouts are considered to be one of the healthiest foods that can be added to one’s diet. They are essentially germinated seeds of various types of grains, vegetables, and legumes, and are packed with a wide range of nutrients such as protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.”

Improved digestion: Sprouts are rich in dietary fibre which helps improve digestion, prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements.

Boosted immunity: Sprouts are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and zinc that can boost the immune system and help the body fight off infections and diseases.

Enhanced nutrient absorption: The sprouting process helps unlock and increase the bioavailability of nutrients, making them easier to absorb and utilize by the body.

Reduced inflammation: Sprouts contain enzymes that help reduce inflammation in the body, which can help alleviate symptoms of various chronic diseases such as arthritis and diabetes.

Weight management: Sprouts are low in calories and high in fibre, making them an ideal food for weight management as they can help you feel fuller for longer periods of time.

Here’s a recipe for a nutritional sprouts salad:

Ingredients:

1 cup mixed sprouts (mung beans, chickpeas, lentils, alfalfa, etc.)

1 small cucumber, chopped

1 small tomato, chopped

1 small onion, chopped

1 carrot, grated

1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Rinse the mixed sprouts thoroughly and soak them in water for 6-8 hours or overnight.

Drain the water and rinse the sprouts again. Cover them with a clean cloth and leave them in a cool, dark place for 24-36 hours until they begin to sprout.

Once the sprouts are ready, rinse them again and place them in a large bowl.

Add the chopped cucumber, tomato, onion, and grated carrot to the bowl and mix well.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

Garnish the salad with fresh coriander leaves and serve chilled.

This sprouts salad is a great source of protein, fibre, and essential nutrients, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. Enjoy!

When to have sprouts salad

Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says, “The best time to eat sprouts salad is during the day, either during lunch or as a mid-day snack. This is because sprouts are high in fiber, and consuming them during the day can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time, which can prevent overeating and promote weight management.”

That being said, you can eat sprouts salad at any time that is convenient for you. They can be eaten as a side dish with a meal or as a standalone snack. Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly and store them properly to ensure freshness and prevent contamination.

Adding extra nutritional sprouts salad to your diet is an excellent way to enhance your overall health and well-being. They are easy to prepare, delicious, and highly nutritious, making them an excellent addition to any healthy diet.

However, Ayurveda also recommends that sprouts should be consumed in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to an imbalance of Pitta dosha, causing digestive issues such as acidity and heartburn.

Dr.V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, concludes, “Sprouts are considered to be a beneficial food in Ayurveda and can be consumed as a part of a balanced diet to promote overall health and well-being. However, it is important to consume them in moderation and consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine the appropriate amount and frequency of consumption based on your individual dosha and health condition.”